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Used 2005 Mazda 3 Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
315 reviews

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4.88 out of 5 stars

I love my Mazda3

Jess, 01/16/2008
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I decided to buy myself a birthday gift in 2005 and got this car. It had all of the features I wanted and is the best looking hatchback on the market. It is so much fun to drive and has never had a single mechanical issue in 2.5 years! I will drive this car for many many years, even if I could afford a higher performance vehicle. I mean it isn't as much fun to drive as a Lotus Exige S, but for a hatch that can easily fit snowboards (and a bunch of furniture from Ikea) it is the best option!

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4 out of 5 stars

good car with irritating problem

erwin, 01/04/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car is overall well made, except for the "Check Engine" light that came on at 87 miles (and has been coming on every couple of miles or so). The dealer can give me no real explanation. it is a huge hassle to have to go to the dealer for them to "fix" the problem (which they probably just disconnect the battery for a minute or so). Otherwise, a great car.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

cheap thrills

Isenbergh, 09/14/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was looking for a small wagon, but what sold me on this car was how much more fun it was to drive than its competitors (Subaru, Scion, Toyota). Steering, braking, throttle response and shifting remind me of a good sports car. I replaced the stock tires with Toyo TS-1 ultra performance ones and the handling got even better. Otherwise the car seems solid but unspectacular: engine is smooth, linear and quick, but no scorcher; ride is quite firm; seats are sturdy & supportive, but plain; fit, finish & ergonomic design are very good. Audio and AC good for economy class. Rear seats tight but serviceable. Cargo area adequate for a big dog. Highway mileage 35 at 65mph. Nice dash.

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5 out of 5 stars

Nearly perfect!

Dan, 03/30/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was debating between a (Toyota) Scion TC and a Mazda 3. After researching, testing, and spending some time with each car, my only regret is that I wasted so much time with the TC. I settled on a 2004 3s (2.3 engine and trim extras). The quality of the parts and build is simply amazing for a car in this price range. If you spent 10 minutes in either car, the difference is night and day. Anyone in the market for a sedan under 25k should look everywhere else first, then when you see this car you'll be even more amazed at what they offer you for the price. For the gas mileage people: i'm getting BETTER than rated (i'm at 28/35) at 1,300k...so it's not even broken in yet!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

cup of tea

bl fong, 09/14/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great handling, excellent brakes. Steering feel excellent -- you steer, it turns! Very good ride even with 50 series tires. No ABS brakes, excellent modulation. I got the auto transmission; spouse request. Very good from a stoplight. Seats and steering wheel infinitely adjustable and comfortable. Stereo 6 CD changer very nice. very little brake dust on wheels. Glove box huge! My golf clubs will fit in back. Rear seats tight -- exit/egress lacking. I would buy again!

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Best Bang for the buck

mikeabbott, 06/23/2009
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

After doing a lot of research I bought mine brand new and after 4 years it still puts a smile on my face. I have no plans to sell this car anytime soon. Mechanically the car has been sound. A couple of sensors had to be replaced under warranty, no big deal. Performs well for 4 door sedan and is a blast to drive on the twisties. Interior is fine for a under 20k car and more than one passenger has commented on the lighting and sleek interior design.

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5 out of 5 stars

I love my Mazda!

Kec5142, 06/21/2008
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I haven't had a single problem with this car. It runs like a champ and looks great. I have kept my car in excellent condition and I keep up with routine maintenece so it runs like it does. I love this car.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2005 3S

bamark, 09/14/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had this car for about 6 months now, and it is a very reliable, responsive and fun car to drive. The metallic red turns heads, the interior is well done, and gas mileage has averaged 27 combined with the 2.3 .

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5 out of 5 stars

car of my own

mags84, 03/31/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The mazda 3 has never disappointed me in the 5 months of owning it, easily the best car I have driven in terms of handling, performance on and off the highway, and overall style.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Very Pleased with 1st Mazda Top Notch

Christian, 09/12/2005
2005 Mazda 3 s 4dr Hatchback (2.3L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Recently bought my 3 and I am very happy with it. I have put about 1800 miles on it. Handles great, decent brakes (like to squeak when backing out of driveway). Hatch is very roomy, I am in the process of moving and it has been able to carry everything so far. The fog lights are useless, not worth buying on the 4 door; come standard on 5 door. I love the styling, projector headlights, euro style tails. Visibility is excellent, back seat a little tight for taller people, good for average height. Can't wait for the speed edition coming next year; do I hear TURBO ALL WHEEL DRIVE? Look out econo cars....

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